In Grants Pass, the newly elected mayor and City Council have intensified efforts to tackle homelessness following a controversial high court ruling. The ruling overturned a previous decision against camping bans without adequate shelter space, empowering local officials to enforce ordinances prohibiting camping in public areas. With only one shelter that has restrictive rules, many homeless individuals struggle to find safe spaces. Despite designating areas for camping, the Council recently closed the larger site, heightening distress for those affected, particularly disabled individuals, prompting legal challenges from advocates for the homeless.
The new council closed the larger of the two campsites - which housed roughly 120 tents, forcing people to pack up their belongings daily with nowhere to settle.
Disability Rights Oregon criticized the city, stating that it aims to make homelessness so unpleasant that people will leave, disregarding the vulnerable population's needs.
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